A Message to Farmers and Producers in Haldimand-Norfolk:

As I’m sure you’re aware, the Prime Minister recently announced that Canada will be closing its border to all non-citizens starting March 18th at noon. While it’s important to stop the spread of COVID-19, it’s not clear what this means for farmers who have workers coming to help on their farms this season through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP).

Please find here a letter I sent today to the Minister of Agriculture regarding the uncertain impacts of border closures on the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

As I continue to stand with the farmers and producers of Haldimand-Norfolk, I will update you when more information is made available. I ask that you please share this message with all farmers and producers you know who rely on foreign workers.

I urge you to join me in vocalizing your concerns to the Minister of Agriculture’s office as well. You can email the Senior Advisor: abed.harb@canada.ca.